ACT Policing has delivered a stern warning to motorists following a massive, month-long crackdown on impaired driving that saw 24,000 breath tests and 400 roadside drug screenings conducted across the territory throughout August.
The high-visibility operation, aimed at curbing road trauma, resulted in dozens of drivers being pulled from the road for testing positive to alcohol or illicit substances. Police have described the sheer volume of tests as a direct response to a concerning trend of reckless behaviour observed on Canberra’s roads in recent months.
While the vast majority of motorists were found to be compliant with the law, the significant number of screenings—averaging nearly 800 breath tests per day—highlights the intensity of the force’s efforts to target recidivist offenders and casual drink-drivers alike. Officers were deployed at key arterial roads, suburban intersections, and nightlife precincts to maximise the reach of the enforcement campaign.
“Our message is clear: if you are behind the wheel, you should be prepared to be stopped at any time, anywhere,” a police spokesperson said. “The goal of these operations is not just to issue infringements, but to change driver behaviour and save lives. There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.”
The data released following the August campaign underscores the ongoing challenge authorities face in ensuring road safety. While the specific number of positive results from the 400 drug tests remains subject to forensic confirmation, initial reports suggest that a high percentage of those screened for illicit substances returned positive readings, prompting immediate action from officers on the scene. Drivers found exceeding the prescribed blood alcohol limit or testing positive for drugs face a range of penalties, including immediate licence suspensions, hefty fines, and, in severe cases, court appearances.
The surge in testing activity comes as part of a broader commitment by ACT Policing to reduce the number of serious and fatal collisions on local roads. Traffic operations are expected to remain elevated throughout the coming months, with police utilising both mobile units and permanent checkpoints to maintain pressure on those who continue to endanger the public.
“It is disappointing that, despite repeated public warnings, people continue to put themselves and the wider community at risk,” the spokesperson added. “We have seen the devastating impact of road trauma, and we will continue to use every resource at our disposal to ensure that those who choose to drive impaired are held accountable.”
Police are urging the community to continue reporting suspected drink or drug-driving incidents to Crime Stoppers, noting that public cooperation remains a vital tool in their ongoing efforts to keep Canberra’s roads safe. As the spring season approaches, authorities have signalled that there will be no let-up in enforcement activity.
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